Allentown Hiking Club
10-25-25 to 10-26-25 7:30 am | Backpack
Backpack from Stony Valley to Greenpoint (AT: Rausch Gap Section)Virtual Shake Down: Tuesday, October 21 at 7:00pm (stay tuned for emails for those registered)
Start: Saturday, October 25 – 7:30am
End: Sunday, October 26 – 1:00pm
Virtual Shake Down: Tuesday, October 21 – 7:00pm
Backpacker Experience: Advanced - High mileage on Day 1; rain or shine event
Maximum Backpackers: 12
End: Sunday, October 26 – 1:00pm
Virtual Shake Down: Tuesday, October 21 – 7:00pm
Backpacker Experience: Advanced - High mileage on Day 1; rain or shine event
Maximum Backpackers: 12
Trip Leader: Stephenie Steck is CPR certified and has nearly completed the entire Pennsylvania Appalachian Trail, with only 14 miles remaining. Over the years, she has led a group of women hikers, the “Women of the Woods,” on trails such as the Loyalsock, Black Forest, West Rim, and the northern AT in Maine. With 20 years of backpacking experience, including solo hikes and winter camping, she is excited to lead this hike and share her love of the outdoors with fellow adventurers.
Description: This 16–18-mile backpacking route (depending on side trail excursions) features a total elevation gain of 2,057 feet and highlights one of Pennsylvania’s most remote and historic sections of the Appalachian Trail.
Day 1 (Approx. 8.3 miles): The trip begins at the Stony Valley AT parking lot along Route 325, heading northbound toward Greenpoint. Depending on weather and group energy levels, there is an optional side trip to “The General”, a remnant from the old mining days, accessible via the Sand Spring side trail.
Day 2 (Approx 7.5 miles): Hikers will travel through the historic Rausch Gap area, once a thriving coal mining town (1828–1910) with a population of about 1,000 residents. A short side trail leads to the former village site and cemetery. The route also passes an active beaver dam area. If water levels are high, an alternate trail is available, but those choosing to cross the dam should be prepared for wet feet and may benefit from hiking poles, as the crossing is a true test of balance and agility.
Camping: Overnight accommodations are at the Rausch Creek Shelter, which includes a large shelter, privy, and a reliable spring (the only safe water source due to mine runoff in the creek). Tent space is available near the privy and close to the shelter.
Shuttle & Parking: Vehicles will be parked at the Moonshine Road AT parking lot (Greenpoint). Shuttles to the trip starting point at Stony Valley.
Trip Highlights:
• Longest roadless section of the AT in Pennsylvania
• Multiple historic side trails to explore
• Rich mining history and cultural landmarks
• A remote, scenic, and immersive backcountry experience
This section of the Appalachian Trail is considered one of the most rewarding backpacking routes in Pennsylvania— ideal for a weekend getaway filled with history, natural beauty, and adventure.
Description: This 16–18-mile backpacking route (depending on side trail excursions) features a total elevation gain of 2,057 feet and highlights one of Pennsylvania’s most remote and historic sections of the Appalachian Trail.
Day 1 (Approx. 8.3 miles): The trip begins at the Stony Valley AT parking lot along Route 325, heading northbound toward Greenpoint. Depending on weather and group energy levels, there is an optional side trip to “The General”, a remnant from the old mining days, accessible via the Sand Spring side trail.
Day 2 (Approx 7.5 miles): Hikers will travel through the historic Rausch Gap area, once a thriving coal mining town (1828–1910) with a population of about 1,000 residents. A short side trail leads to the former village site and cemetery. The route also passes an active beaver dam area. If water levels are high, an alternate trail is available, but those choosing to cross the dam should be prepared for wet feet and may benefit from hiking poles, as the crossing is a true test of balance and agility.
Camping: Overnight accommodations are at the Rausch Creek Shelter, which includes a large shelter, privy, and a reliable spring (the only safe water source due to mine runoff in the creek). Tent space is available near the privy and close to the shelter.
Shuttle & Parking: Vehicles will be parked at the Moonshine Road AT parking lot (Greenpoint). Shuttles to the trip starting point at Stony Valley.
Trip Highlights:
• Longest roadless section of the AT in Pennsylvania
• Multiple historic side trails to explore
• Rich mining history and cultural landmarks
• A remote, scenic, and immersive backcountry experience
This section of the Appalachian Trail is considered one of the most rewarding backpacking routes in Pennsylvania— ideal for a weekend getaway filled with history, natural beauty, and adventure.
To register to attend or for more information contact Howard Reid at howardnreidjr@gmail.com / (610)420-8194.